THE Care Quality Commission (CQC) has rated Carlisle Mencap ‘Good’ following its latest inspection of the charity that provides support and services for more than 500 people with learning disabilities and their families across Cumbria.
The report, which followed inspectors’ visits to the charity in September and last month, reveals that the charity rated ‘Good’ in all the categories, covering safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led services.
Summing up their findings, the CQC praised Carlisle Mencap, saying: “The charity ensured people who used the service can live as full a life as possible and achieve the best possible outcomes that include control, choice and independence. People were treated with dignity and respect.”
The report also added: “Systems were in place to protect people from risk of abuse and staff understood their responsibilities in relation to safeguarding and whistle-blowing procedures. Relatives confirmed they thought people were safe and well cared for.”
Carlisle Mencap was set up in 1968 and is locally managed and funded. Its services include short breaks for adults at California House in Carlisle and for children at Huntley Avenue, Penrith, Hart Street, Ulverston, and the Grace Little Centre in Carlisle, children’s home-based respite, community support, young people’s clubs, autism groups, holidays and leisure activities.
Commenting on the latest CQC findings, a delighted Sheila Gregory, chief executive officer at Carlisle Mencap, said: “I am absolutely delighted with this good report. I am very happy with the report by the inspectors which proves the high quality of our services. I am so proud of all the hard work the staff team here have put in to achieve this result.”
